The Social Design Award 2026 (SPIEGEL Wissen in cooperation with BAUHAUS) is an internationally open competition that honors projects strengthening social cohesion through design. This year’s edition is themed “We create connections” and seeks ideas that foster interaction and solidarity between different social groups, for example between young and old, rich and poor, or between different road users. The focus lies on conceptual, design-based, and practical approaches that enhance social relationships and community building.

Who can apply?

• Designers, architects, artists, and students

• Interdisciplinary teams and individual applicants

• Open internationally to anyone working in the field of social design

• Projects must address social cohesion and forms of societal connection

How can you apply?

• Submission via the online application form

• Upload of project materials such as:

  • photographs

  • design drawings

  • videos

  • project descriptions

• Projects must relate thematically to “We create connections”

• Digital submission via the official website

Application deadline: 31 August 2026

For more information click here!